A MEASLES outbreak has struck Victoria, with Mitchell Shire among the hardest-hit areas, prompting urgent warnings from health authorities.
So far, 24 cases have been confirmed statewide in 2025, already exceeding last year’s total. The outbreak has been declared the worst in over a decade. Unlike previous years, when cases were mostly linked to international travel, this year has seen confirmed local transmission in Greater Melbourne and Mitchell Shire.
Last month, several public exposure sites were identified in Kilmore, but as of May 1, the measles exposure sites in the town – ALDI, Coles, Petstock, the Kilmore library, and Kilmore District Hospital – are considered safe. The last known exposure at these locations occurred between April 21 and April 23.
Measles symptoms include fever, cough, sore eyes, fatigue, and a distinctive red, blotchy rash.
The current outbreak has reignited concerns over declining vaccination rates in the state. Health authorities report that most of the current cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is offered free of charge in Victoria to anyone born after 1966.
Dr. Clare Looker, Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, said the outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of vaccine hesitancy.
“Measles is one of the most infectious diseases we know. Even brief exposure in public places can result in transmission,” she said
